Death's Autograph: A Mystery

This deftly plotted, cleverly resolved debut introduces charming London antiquarian book dealer Dido Hoare, who finds her usual quiet routine interrupted. First, she is followed and harassed on a country road by a car that finally speeds away; then her convalescing father, Barnabas, a retired literature professor, receives a threatening note referring ominously to Dido's encounter on the road; and, to top it off, her ex-husband, Davey, makes an unwelcome return, asking to help out in the shop. The violence escalates and after a car bombing and a murder, Dido's case--and Dido herself--receive attention from handsome detective inspector Paul Grant. Struggling to discover what treasure might be hidden in her modest collection, Dido proves to be engagingly resilient and resourceful as she and Barnabas pinpoint the collection of materials belonging to a noted Shakespearean forger and the possibility that a genuine gem lies among the fakes. Both father and daughter find their mettle tested when Barnabas uses himself as bait for a trap that snares Dido as well. Barnabas, whose recovery from a heart attack is spurred by the puzzle, emerges as the most memorable character. Readers will eagerly anticipate the return of both Dido and her dad. (Oct.)